Traveling for Labor Day? What to know in Rock Hill region whether it’s by car or plane
For those traveling during the Labor Day weekend, there’s a chance you’ll hit traffic or get stuck in a line at the airport, but luckily for some, the price of gas continues to fall.
Throughout the summer, gas prices across the country have continuously declined after reaching a peak in mid-June, according to American Automobile Association. And in South Carolina, the average price is one of the lowest in the country, according to AAA.
Gas continues to drop in the Rock Hill area. Last week, the average price for a gallon of regular gas in Rock Hill was $3.44. This week, it’s $3.40. South Carolina’s average price is $3.45 a gallon.
In North Carolina, the prices are higher, but they’re also declining. Last week, the average price in Charlotte was $3.60, and this week, it’s $3.55. North Carolina’s average price is $3.54 a gallon.
Here’s what else you should know ahead of the holiday weekend in the Rock Hill area.
High weekend temperatures
While there is a chance of storms in the Rock Hill area this weekend, residents can also expect to see some sunny skies, according to the NWS Rock Hill forecast.
On Saturday, aside from a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m., it will be partly sunny. And it will likely to be the hottest day throughout the three-day weekend, with a high of 87, according to the forecast.
Sunday will also be partly sunny, with a high of 84. There’s a 40% chance of showers and storms between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. And in the evening, the skies will be mostly cloudy, with the temperature dropping to the high 60s, according to the forecast.
Monday has the highest chance for rain at 50%, according to the forecast. The skies will be partly sunny, but after 2 p.m., there’s a chance for showers and thunderstorms. The day’s high will reach 85, according to the forecast.
More law enforcement on the roads
Most Labor Day travelers will be hitting the roads for the last holiday of the summer, according to a recent Cars.com survey that found about 80% of those traveling this weekend are planning to drive to their destination due to lower gas prices and recent airline disruptions.
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety is prepared for the spike in drivers.
Since Aug. 19, the department has, as part of its Sober or Slammer enforcement campaign, been working to crack down on impaired driving. The campaign runs through Labor Day weekend.
During the two-week campaign, state and local law enforcement will participate in a multi-state joint public safety checkpoints, according to the department.
Law enforcement will also place a strong emphasis on safety belts, speeding and distracted driving.
“Many people try to enjoy one final vacation in these last few weeks of summer,” SCDPS Director Robert Woods said. “Our troopers and officers are preparing to make sure those trips remain safe for everyone traveling our state’s roadways. People can expect to see increased enforcement, especially around popular vacation destinations and high-collision corridors.”
Arrive early at Charlotte airport
Charlotte Douglas International Airport officials have advised travelers to arrive early for flights during the busy holiday weekend.
Between Thursday and Monday, airport officials said about 315,000 passengers will be flying through the airport, according to a news release. The largest crowds are expected on Thursday and Friday, with about 80,000 passengers each day.
TSA recommends that passengers get in line at the airline check in counter or security screening area at least two hours before the departure time for a domestic flight, the release said.
Throughout the summer, the airport has also experienced a high demand for parking.
Airport officials encourage travelers to reserve parking online ahead of time at parkCLT.com, or consider getting dropped off by a ride-share company, taxi or bus.
This story was originally published September 1, 2022 at 3:04 PM.
